Residents in Kingsteignton and Shaldon are already benefiting from new free walking groups launched this month as part of Teignbridge Council's Walk This Way scheme, with another set to follow.

The initiative promotes healthy living and socialising, giving people regular access to walks led by qualified leaders.

A new walk was launched from Tesco, Kingsteignton, at the start of the month, led by Tesco community champion Janette Parker and staff member Julie Foster.

The easy 'level one' walk is perfect for new walkers and anyone with mobility issues, featuring mostly flat surfaces with easy access.

Walks will depart at 9am from the front of the Tesco store on January 5 and 19 and will continue every two weeks after that.

Anyone can join in and there's no need to book.

In January, there'll also be a Parents and Pushchairs walk departing from Kingsteignton Health Centre.

The walk is designed to be pushchair friendly, enabling parents to come along with babies and toddlers.

Details of the launch date and times will be posted on http://www.teignbridge">www.teignbridge. gov.uk/walkthisway soon.

Meanwhile, in Shaldon, walkers meet every Wednesday at 10am at the memorial on the village green for a level 1-2 walk with volunteer leader Diz Wright.

Cllr George Gribble, Teignbridge executive spokesman for communities, recreation and leisure said: 'We now run nearly 20 walks all around the district, giving people a great opportunity to keep fit and make new friends.

'People from all sorts of backgrounds take part in the scheme, bringing local people together to enjoy fresh air, good conversation and exercise.

To get involved, simply turn up on the day, or contact the Walk This Way coordinator on 01626 215603 or [email protected]">[email protected].